Are you tired of the same old reheated BBQ chicken dinner every night? Look no further! We’ve scoured the internet for the most creative and delicious ways to repurpose leftover BBQ chicken, and we’re excited to share our top 19 picks with you. From savory quesadillas to sweet potato stuffed with a twist, these recipes will breathe new life into your post-BBQ meal.
Whether you’re a fan of spicy and bold or mellow and comforting, there’s something on this list for everyone. So go ahead, get creative, and give your taste buds a reason to rejoice!
… (to be continued)
BBQ Chicken Quesadillas with Cheddar Cheese
Get ready to spice up your lunch or dinner game with these mouth-watering BBQ chicken quesadillas! Tender chicken, crispy tortilla, and melted cheddar cheese come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
• 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
• 2 large flour tortillas
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together cooked chicken, BBQ sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on half of the tortilla.
4. Add 1/4 cup of the BBQ chicken mixture on top of the cheese.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
8. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy BBQ Chicken Pizza with Red Onions
Elevate your pizza game with this spicy twist on a classic favorite! Tender chicken, sweet red onions, and a kick of heat come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1/2 cup Spicy BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
2. Spread Spicy BBQ sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around edges.
3. Top with chicken, red onions, and mozzarella cheese.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and cilantro.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown and toppings are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Creamy BBQ Chicken Pasta Bake
A flavorful twist on classic pasta bake, this recipe combines tender chicken, tangy BBQ sauce, and creamy pasta for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tbsp. butter
– 1 cup mixed cheese (Cheddar and Parmesan)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté chicken in butter until cooked through. Add BBQ sauce and stir to combine.
4. In a separate pot, melt remaining butter. Combine heavy cream and mixed cheese. Stir until smooth and creamy.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine pasta, chicken mixture, and creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional mixed cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
BBQ Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this twist on classic sweet potato casserole! These BBQ chicken-stuffed sweet potatoes are a perfect combination of savory, smoky, and comforting.
Ingredients:
– 4 large sweet potatoes
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake sweet potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. While sweet potatoes are baking, mix together chicken, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
4. Slice sweet potatoes in half lengthwise and scoop out some of the flesh to make room for the filling.
5. Divide the chicken mixture among the sweet potatoes, spooning it into the hollowed-out centers.
6. Return stuffed sweet potatoes to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: Total: 1 hour 15 minutes
Enjoy your delicious BBQ chicken-stuffed sweet potatoes!
Tangy BBQ Chicken Salad with Avocado
A refreshing twist on classic BBQ chicken salad, this recipe adds creamy avocado and a tangy kick from store-bought or homemade BBQ sauce. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup store-bought or homemade BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, diced chicken, and avocado.
2. Drizzle with BBQ sauce and toss to coat.
3. Top with crumbled feta cheese (if using) and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes (prep time only)
BBQ Chicken and Corn Chowder
Savor the flavors of summer with this hearty and delicious BBQ chicken and corn chowder, perfect for a cozy evening or outdoor gathering. This comforting soup combines tender chicken, sweet corn, and smoky BBQ goodness in one mouthwatering pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed veggies (bell peppers, carrots, celery)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté chicken, veggies, and paprika in butter until cooked through.
2. Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, corn kernels, and BBQ sauce. Stir well.
3. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
BBQ Chicken Tacos with Lime Crema
Get ready to fiesta with these flavorful BBQ chicken tacos topped with a zesty lime crema!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
– 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco (or feta cheese)
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– Lime Crema (recipe below)
Lime Crema:
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce and 1 tbsp water. Add chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos with grilled chicken, lettuce, tomatoes, queso fresco, and cilantro.
6. Drizzle Lime Crema over the top and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
BBQ Chicken and Pineapple Skewers
Elevate your backyard BBQ game with this easy-to-make, flavorful recipe that combines juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, and tangy BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread chicken, pineapple, and a pinch of salt onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, olive oil, and honey. Brush the mixture evenly onto the skewers.
4. Place skewers on the grill and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is cooked through.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
BBQ Chicken Nachos with Jalapeños
Elevate your nacho game with this mouth-watering recipe that combines the flavors of tender chicken, spicy jalapeños, and creamy BBQ sauce. Perfect for a quick snack or a party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup tortilla chips
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 large jalapeños, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. In a bowl, mix diced chicken, BBQ sauce, and jalapeños.
4. Spread the chicken mixture over the tortilla chips.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with cilantro.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
BBQ Chicken and Bacon Sliders
BBQ Chicken and Bacon Sliders Recipe
Savor the sweet and smoky flavors of BBQ chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy coleslaw on soft buns – a perfect combination for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 2 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw (store-bought or homemade)
– Lettuce leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, cook bacon slices in a pan over medium heat until crispy.
4. Brush BBQ sauce on both sides of the grilled chicken.
5. Assemble sliders by placing chicken on buns, topping with crispy bacon, coleslaw, and lettuce leaves.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
BBQ Chicken Fried Rice with Vegetables
This recipe combines the flavors of BBQ chicken, savory rice, and crunchy vegetables for a delicious and satisfying meal. Perfect for using up leftover ingredients!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup diced cooked chicken
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cooked chicken; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes, until the rice is heated through and starting to brown.
5. Add the BBQ sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
BBQ Chicken and Black Bean Enchiladas
This recipe combines the rich flavors of BBQ chicken with the comforting warmth of black beans, all wrapped up in a crispy tortilla. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Vegetable oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Grill or cook chicken breasts until cooked through, then shred into bite-sized pieces.
3. In a large skillet, combine black beans and BBQ sauce. Simmer over medium heat until heated through.
4. Brush tortillas with vegetable oil and warm in the oven for 5 minutes.
5. Assemble enchiladas by spooning chicken and bean mixture onto each tortilla, then topping with shredded cheese.
6. Place enchiladas seam-side down in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
BBQ Chicken Stuffed Bell Peppers
A sweet and savory twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this BBQ chicken version is a flavorful and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
• 4 large bell peppers, any color
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into small pieces
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken, onion, and garlic; cook until chicken is browned and cooked through.
4. Stir in BBQ sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the chicken mixture, filling to the top.
6. Cover baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
7. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
BBQ Chicken and Macaroni Casserole
This comforting casserole combines the sweetness of BBQ sauce with the creaminess of macaroni and cheese, topped with crispy chicken and a crunchy breadcrumb topping. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook chicken until browned and cooked through. Add BBQ sauce and stir to coat.
4. In a separate pot, combine milk and butter. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Combine cooked macaroni, shredded cheese, and paprika in a mixing bowl. Pour in milk mixture and stir until combined.
6. Transfer casserole mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with cooked chicken and breadcrumbs.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
BBQ Chicken Flatbread with Arugula
This recipe combines the richness of BBQ chicken with the peppery flavor of arugula, all wrapped up in a crispy flatbread. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or as a fun twist on game day snacks.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 pre-made flatbread (or make your own)
– 1/2 cup arugula
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Brush flatbread with a little olive oil and toast for 2-3 minutes.
4. Top flatbread with grilled chicken, BBQ sauce, arugula, and feta cheese (if using).
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
BBQ Chicken and Potato Hash
A classic comfort food combination, this recipe brings together the rich flavors of slow-cooked chicken and crispy potato hash, all wrapped up in a tangy BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together onion, garlic, and 1/4 cup of BBQ sauce.
3. Place chicken breasts in a large baking dish and spoon the onion mixture evenly over each breast.
4. Cover with foil and bake for 2 hours or until chicken is tender.
5. Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Add diced potatoes and cook for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown, stirring occasionally.
7. Serve BBQ chicken breasts atop potato hash, drizzled with remaining BBQ sauce.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (chicken) + 15 minutes (potato hash)
BBQ Chicken Wraps with Ranch Dressing
A flavorful twist on traditional wraps, these BBQ chicken wraps are perfect for a quick and easy meal or snack. With the added richness of ranch dressing, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 8 large tortilla wraps
– 2 tablespoons ranch dressing
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– Lettuce and tomato (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and your favorite seasonings. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. In a small bowl, mix BBQ sauce and ranch dressing.
4. Warm tortilla wraps according to package instructions.
5. Assemble wraps by placing grilled chicken, shredded cheese (if using), lettuce, and tomato (if using) in the center of each wrap.
6. Drizzle BBQ-ranch mixture over the top and fold wraps in half.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
BBQ Chicken and Rice Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the flavors of tender chicken, creamy BBQ sauce, and savory rice for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat.
3. In a separate bowl, combine cooked rice, BBQ sauce, cilantro, and cheddar cheese. Stir until well combined.
4. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange the cooked chicken in an even layer. Top with the rice mixture and smooth out.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
BBQ Chicken Sliders with Coleslaw
These mouthwatering sliders are perfect for a casual gathering or quick weeknight dinner. Tender chicken breasts, smothered in a tangy BBQ sauce and topped with crispy onions, are served on soft buns with a refreshing side of creamy coleslaw.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 8 small hamburger buns
– Coleslaw ingredients (see below)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Coleslaw Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage, shredded
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon cider vinegar
– 1/2 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Slather BBQ sauce on grilled chicken during the last minute of cooking.
4. Meanwhile, toast buns on the grill or in a toaster.
5. Assemble sliders by placing chicken on buns and topping with chopped onion.
6. Prepare coleslaw by mixing all ingredients in a bowl until combined. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
7. Serve sliders with a side of creamy coleslaw.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get creative with your leftover BBQ chicken! This article presents 19 delicious and innovative recipes to transform your BBQ chicken into mouth-watering dishes. From savory pizzas and pasta bakes, to sweet potato stuffings and salad tosses, these ideas will inspire you to think outside the box. Whether you’re in the mood for Mexican-inspired quesadillas or comforting casseroles, there’s something for everyone. Let the flavors shine with BBQ chicken-stuffed bell peppers, wraps with ranch dressing, or even chowder with corn and potatoes. The possibilities are endless!
